Jeff Barber

Jeff co-founded Singletracks with his wife Leah in 1998 and has been dedicated to sharing the mountain bike information that inspires others to take epic adventures ever since. He started mountain biking in high school and served in the US Air Force before devoting himself full time to Singletracks in 2007.

Though formally educated as an engineer, Jeff began writing stories at an early stage, inspired by his mother who is a longtime accomplished author. He enjoys covering the world of mountain biking from every possible angle, whether it's trails or gear or skills. His goal for every story: that readers learn at least one new thing.

Author snapshot

MTB Background and expertise

  • Riding experience: Trail, XC, and bikepacking.
  • Mountain biking since: 1992
  • Number of products reviewed: ?. I think my first product review for the site was this one for a plastic wallet.
  • Current stable: Canyon Neuron, Orange P7 hardtail, and Scott Fun XC

Education and writing experience

  • Bachelors of Science in Engineering, Duke University
  • Masters of Business Administration, Duke University
  • Other publications: Panther Press (Lakeside High School - Augusta, GA), CitySearch.com
 
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
  6
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
  1
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
  1
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
  2
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
  1
  4
A CD case for Magellan's MapSend Topo 3D software, featuring a colorful design with a map preview in the bottom right corner, and text indicating compatibility with various Magellan GPS receivers. The top section includes the Magellan logo and the title "MapSend Topo 3D."
A promotional poster for "On the Road to Athens," featuring a cyclist wearing a helmet and focused on riding, with a background of an American flag. The design includes text highlighting the event and sponsors.
A close-up view of a speedometer displaying speed in miles per hour (MPH) and kilometers per hour (km/h), with a red and white illuminated design.
  3
Logo for Singletracks, featuring a stylized mountain graphic above the word "singletracks" with the tagline "bike the net" below.
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
  1
Book cover titled "Mountain Biking Georgia" by Alex Nutt, featuring a scenic trail with two mountain bikers riding through a wooded area. The design includes bold text and is likely aimed at outdoor enthusiasts.
  1
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
  2
Screenshot of the Garmin Training Center application showing a training activity. The display includes a map with a highlighted route represented by yellow dots around a lake, along with performance data such as elapsed time, distance, average speed, calories burned, and heart rate statistics. The bottom section features a graph comparing elevation and heart rate over distance.
  1
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
  1
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
  1
  1
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
  4
Exterior of a Trek Bicycle Store, featuring a brick façade, green awnings, and large windows displaying bicycles. A parked car with a bike rack loaded with bicycles is in the foreground, and parking lines are visible in the lot.
  1
A group of mountain bikers riding through a rock-lined path underneath a highway, with concrete pillars supporting the structure above. The terrain features winding trails and earthy surroundings, providing a unique biking experience in an urban environment.
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
Alt text: Movie poster for "2 Solo," featuring a mountain biker in action and a close-up of a cyclist's face, with the tagline "One man's quest for a 7th world title and the punishment he'll take to get it." Brands like Volkswagen, Trek, and Nike are also featured.
  1
A winding dirt path through a forest with tall, bare trees and a view of distant mountains under a blue sky with scattered clouds. Leaf litter covers the ground alongside the trail, and patches of green vegetation are visible.
  2
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
A close-up image of a bicycle handlebar mirror, featuring a round reflective surface attached to a black adjustable arm and a textured grip.
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
  2
What would you say is the average age of mountain bikers these days? Based on my observations at the local trails I'd say it's about 30-35 and doesn't seem to be getting any younger. Our own surveys show the average singletracks rider is 36, though I suspect the actual average may be just a bit lower. Regardless, getting young riders in the saddle and growing the sport is tough and I suspect one reason is that mountain biking just ain't cool anymore. Without new riders mountain biking might as well be dead.

Why isn't mountain biking cool anymore? A few thoughts:
<ul>
	<li>MTB takes skill and stamina: To be good at mountain biking you gotta be in shape. That means less Xbox, more time in the saddle (uncool).</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikes are expensive: Many current trends have their roots in urban culture and kids in the city can't afford mountain bikes. Instead they take up basketball or skateboarding and the suburban kids end up following.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain biking is location based: Most young people don't live near mountain bike trails and it's tough to get out to the trailhead without a car. By the time kids do have cars, mountain biking is the last thing on their minds ;) Skateboarding and BMX, on the other hand, can be done in your own driveway or street.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Who is Tony Hawk: Lance was cool but he was a roadie plus he didn't have too many daredevil moves for the cameras. No mountain bike "rock stars" makes us lame and obscure.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>We're all getting old: A lot of us got into mountain biking in the 1990s when manufacturers were just starting to put front suspension on bikes. Since that time we've aged and today it's just as common to see dads riding with their kids as it is to see hip 20-somethings shredding the trails. If your parents do it (did it) then it must not be cool.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>MTB is no longer extreme: In the early days riding fast on dirt through trees was an extreme sport. The bar has been raised since then and today things like mountain boarding and kite surfing seem much more exciting to the younger generation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bike clothes are (were) lame: Spandex isn't hip with the younger set and fortunately we're moving away from it on the trail, though much of the damage to our rep is already done.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
	<li>Mountain bikers are no longer "bad boys": We used to be rebellious rule breakers, but now, for the most part, land managers are happy to accommodate MTB trails whenever possible. We're also responsible enough to wear helmets most of the time ;)</li>
</ul>
Of course mountain biking spinoffs like freeriding and urban riding are attracting young, new riders but the industry as a whole continues to slide. Downhill races are becoming more popular and in many ways mountain bike tricks are on par with motocross. Could this be where mountain biking is heading? What can we do to change our image? I'll think about some ideas and share them in an upcoming post. In the meantime, be cool...
A scenic view of a rocky landscape featuring a winding dirt path, with a cyclist riding along the trail. The background showcases a river meandering through the valley, surrounded by hills and sparse vegetation under a clear blue sky.
  2